The board is seeking bidders for an energy savings plan that board member Frank Pintabone says could save the district $10.6 million in utility costs over the next 15 years.

Pintabone's proposal last spring called for upgrades to windows, roofs, sinks, toilets, faucets, lighting, HVAC and control systems with more efficient models. The plan could yield an average savings of about $700,000 per year, he said.

The board unanimously approved the measure at a school board meeting Tuesday.

There are between 20 and 30 state-vetted companies that can guarantee savings, Pintabone said. The board would have to vote again to approve a company to do the upgrades, he said.

"I'm doing it as a way to try to save us revenue," he said. "If the savings are there ... then I think it's a no-brainer and we'll do it, but if the savings aren't there, then we won't do it."

During the 2010-11 school year, gas, water, sewer and electric bills totaled about $2.8 million for the district, Pintabone said. Other Pennsylvania school districts and government entities that have used energy service companies saved at least 25 percent yearly and as much as 43 percent, he said.

Pintabone proposed borrowing money through a bond or using $8 million left over from a previous bond to upgrade the schools that would generate the most savings throughout the district. The savings would have to be enough to pay off the bond.

The savings are guaranteed by law, according to Pintabone. If
savings aren't realized, the company pays the district the difference, he said.

The plan will also educate students, train maintenance staff and generate jobs for Easton area residents, Pintabone said.